I had the pleasure of recently staying at the Riu Ocho Rios in April 2015 with my family.  This property is a beautiful hotel on a gorgeous stretch of wide sand beach.    While the beach is not a long walking beach it is beautiful white sand and crystal clear blue waters.

The rooms were well appointed and cleaned daily, with a restocked mini bar being a nice touch.   We had a family room with a king bed and a double bed on the 4th floor with spectacular sea views.

There are lots of choices for dining, we primarily stuck to the buffet with young children and they had lots of options daily.  The pizza was a favorite!

Go early to the buffets or later, it you hit the buffet about 30 mins after it opens it does get a little crazy.

When you enter the hotel you are amazed by the beauty of the hotel as its over looking the ocean.  Front desk staff were warm and welcoming. The hotel is large with lots of wedding groups, however still lots of chairs by the pool and on the  beach.

The jerk hut on the beach is a must try for lunch- fantastic!  There is also a lunch buffet close to the family pool that offers lots of finger foods, fruit, salads- there is also something for everyone.

Drinks were always cold and plentiful.  Make sure to take an mug with you so you don't need to make as many trips to the bar.

If you have been to a RIU hotel before  you will feel right at h ome as they have a lot of common features, if you have never visited a RIU please make it a choice as it is a solid hotel.

We had a wonderful week and enjoy the people and culture of the country.